Biochemical and Hematological Indicators in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: A Descriptive Analytical Study

Abstract

Background: Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive systemic pathological condition characterized by a gradual decline in renal function, leading to impaired glomerular filtration, disrupted endocrine activity, and systemic fluid-electrolyte imbalances. The accumulation of metabolic waste products, secondary anemia, and cardiovascular complications significantly elevate morbidity and mortality rates among these patients.

Objectives: This study aimed to comprehensively analyze the variations in biochemical and hematological indicators among CKD patients. It specifically evaluated the clinical implications of demographic factors (age and gender) and disease severity on biomarkers including Hemoglobin (Hb), Platelet count (PLT), White Blood Cell count (WBC), Serum Potassium (K+), Serum Sodium (Na+), Blood Urea, and Serum Creatinine. Additionally, the study explored the clinical limitations of utilizing serum creatinine as a sole filtration marker, highlighting the diagnostic potential of alternative markers like Cystatin C, particularly in the geriatric population.

Materials & Methods: A descriptive analytical research design was utilized. Clinical and laboratory data were obtained from a purposive sample of 75 confirmed CKD patients undergoing treatment at Ghout Al-Rumman Kidney Center and Al-Qalb Tajoura Dialysis Center between January and March 2025. Laboratory investigations measured complete blood count (CBC) indices, serum electrolytes, blood urea, and creatinine. Statistical computations were processed via SPSS (ANOVA and OLS regression analysis).

Results: Secondary anemia was highly prevalent across the cohort (mean Hb: 9.15 g/dL). Electrolyte abnormalities were notable, including mild hyperkalemia (mean K+: 4.84 mmol/L) and hyponatremia (mean Na+: 135.16 mmol/L). Blood urea (mean: 115.64 mg/dL) and creatinine (mean: 8.59 mg/dL) were profoundly elevated. One-way ANOVA revealed no statistically significant differences in platelet count across CKD severity classes (p = 0.537). OLS regression demonstrated that age (p = 0.005) and gender (p = 0.011) significantly influenced serum creatinine levels independent of overall kidney impairment.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the critical need for multi-parametric laboratory monitoring in the clinical management of CKD. Relying solely on serum creatinine is highly susceptible to diagnostic errors, particularly in elderly patients with sarcopenia. Implementing comprehensive biomarker profiling, including GFR calculations, cystatin C, and stringent electrolyte tracking, is crucial for timely therapeutic interventions.